In a dramatic turn of events during AEW Dynasty’s main event, Swerve Strickland faced off against Jon Moxley in a highly anticipated match for the AEW Championship. Moxley, who has dominated the championship scene since October, was viewed as an opponent ripe for dethroning, making Swerve the perfect challenger. However, the narrative took an unexpected twist when The Young Bucks intervened, ultimately assisting Moxley in retaining his title.
The finish has not gone unnoticed; wrestling commentators and fans alike have expressed significant dissatisfaction on social media. Moxley’s continued reign is not only seen as prolonging a convoluted storyline featuring the Death Riders, but it also presents an opportunity lost for AEW to redefine its creative direction and address its critics. This moment raises questions about the overall trajectory of Moxley’s storyline and its viability moving forward.
Young Bucks Intervention Leads to Moxley’s Title Retention
Main Event Recap
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The clash between Jon Moxley and Swerve Strickland was anticipated to be a pivotal moment, allowing Swerve to restore the essence of AEW amidst chaos stirred by rival factions. This storyline also tapped into Swerve’s complex relationship with former AEW Champion “Hangman”Adam Page, harking back to their fierce rivalry, which is one of the finest narratives AEW has presented to date.
As the match unfolded, it became increasingly intense. Moxley, attempting to seize control, infamously struck the referee with a chair, prompting Page to enter the ring. However, as he deliberated over his next move, the Death Riders intervened, inadvertently causing Page to deliver a Deadeye to Moxley. Swerve visibly gained momentum when he struck Moxley with a chair and attempted his signature Swerve Stomp, but the lights abruptly went out. When they returned, The Young Bucks emerged, immobilizing Swerve and executing an EVP Trigger, allowing Moxley to secure the pin.
Frustration Among Fans Over Moxley’s Reign
Need for a New Direction
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Response on social media to Moxley’s retention has been overwhelmingly negative. Fans voiced their frustration, particularly regarding the underwhelming conclusion of Swerve’s bid for the championship and the stagnation of the Death Riders storyline. Many believe that this creative path has squandered a chance to build an engaging narrative.
Moxley’s title reign and the surrounding storylines are widely perceived as missed opportunities, lacking a coherent message. Rumors suggested that Shane McMahon might lead the Death Riders, but discussions reportedly stalled when he requested a stake in AEW. The absence of clarity has left segments involving the Death Riders often ranking low in audience approval week after week. There’s an urgent call for the company to elevate homegrown talents like Swerve Strickland or MJF as potential faces of AEW, moving past Moxley.
Is AEW Repeating Past Mistakes?
Young Bucks’ Role: A Confusing Addition
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The most shocking moment of the night undoubtedly came when The Young Bucks chose to aid Moxley, delivering a decisive EVP Trigger to Swerve. Their involvement raises questions about their alignment with Moxley’s faction, especially considering their previous entanglements with the lackluster storyline of The New Elite. The rationale behind their support remains nebulous, which could further complicate AEW’s ongoing narrative challenges.